The city of El Paso's Department of Public Health said mosquitoes have tested positive for the West Nile virus.

The mosquitoes were from one of several mosquito pools tested, officials said in a news release. The mosquito pool that tested positive was in Central El Paso in the 79903 ZIP code.

“When it comes to West Nile virus it is never really a question of ‘if’ we can expect to see the disease locally, but rather ‘when,’ ” said Public Health Director Robert Resendes. “What we can do is be proactive against being bitten and be aware that there are other diseases that could present themselves in El Paso.”

Cases in humans of Chikungunya, Dengue and Zika virus have been reported in El Paso, but only in travel-associated cases, officials said. There has been no locally acquired case of those diseases, the news release said.

No West Nile cases have been reported so far this season, but 14 human cases were confirmed last year, the news release said.

Officials warned it only takes a teaspoon of water to create breeding conditions around homes. Residents are urged to “Tip and Toss” items outside homes to prevent stagnant water from becoming a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Officials offered tips to fight the diseases:

DEET: Use insect repellents that contain DEET.

Dress: Wear long sleeves, long pants and socks outdoors.

Dusk till dawn: Mosquitoes linked to Zika can be active throughout the day, but people should take extra care during peak mosquito biting hours, which are from dusk to dawn, or avoid outdoor activities then.